More and more people are acknowledging the challenges that we and future generations will face as cheap, abundant energy is depleted and becomes a legend of the past (remember the adage: My great-grandfather rode a horse, my grandfather rode in a car, my father rode in a jet, and I ride a horse…?). The first question people are asking themselves is, “what can I do to live more sustainably?” Many have turned to solar energy, public transportation, and home gardens, to name a few popular options.

If those steps weren’t enough to pacify the concerned conscience, the second question is, “Should I be looking for a life outside of a society that perpetuates environmentally detrimental, resource-wasteful, and economically ludicrous behavior?”

Now you’re talking. So now the third question becomes, “Can I build a home in a beautiful place like Costa Rica – a politically stable, developing country, with world-renowned health care, surrounded by like-minded neighbors and wildlife you’ve only seen on TV – on a reasonable budget?”

You betcha. After reading a thoughtful post on The Resilient Family blog site, we’ve decided to put together our own “back of the napkin budget” for building in Tierra Pacifica; an ecological community that combines sustainable living with top of the line amenities and services.

Let’s set the scene: imagine a 1-2 acre wooded lot, guarded 24/7, about 5 minutes from great surf and restaurants, and your grocery store, doctor, and vet right out of the front gate. Your home is a modest 1500 square feet, Spanish-colonial style, with a solar water-heating system and passive cooling. You have access to the best pool in Guanacaste, alongside a fitness center with yoga studio and regular classes.

Now, to break it down:

Land Cost: $70-100k
Building Cost: $125-150k ($80-90 sq ft)
Solar Water-Heating: $1-2k
Edible Landscaping: $1k
Total: $200-250k

For $200k you can start a more sustainable life in an amazing place that has the infrastructure to support you through the process. Take your tour now and discover what the buzz is all about.